The quest for the perfect TV can feel like battling a mythical beast – feature-laden giants with hefty price tags guarding the gates of ultimate entertainment. But fear not, budget-conscious viewers! This guide unveils a treasure trove of exceptional TVs that conquer the $800 barrier, offering stunning visuals, smart features, and exceptional value.
Forget sacrificing quality for affordability. Here, we’ll embark on a thrilling journey, dissecting the strengths and weaknesses of top contenders under $800. From immersive picture quality to user-friendly smart TV platforms, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to slay the high-priced dragon and claim victory in your living room.
So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to discover the best TVs under $800 that will transform your movie nights and gaming sessions into legendary experiences, all without breaking the bank!
Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L Series
The Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L Series emerges as a compelling option for viewers seeking a good-looking display at an affordable price point. Let’s see if it hits the right notes for your entertainment needs.
The centerpiece of this Sony TV is the 65-inch 4K UHD LED display, offering a decent viewing experience for casual movie watchers and TV show enthusiasts. While not the most cutting-edge technology, the picture quality is suitable for enjoying everyday content. Blacks could be deeper for movie buffs seeking an ultra-immersive cinematic experience, especially in dark scenes.
Motion handling is adequate for most viewers. The X77L Series delivers smooth visuals for casual movies and TV shows. However, gamers craving the ultimate responsiveness for fast-paced games might want to consider a TV with a higher refresh rate.
The user-friendly Google TV platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its intuitive interface and vast library of apps, Google TV ensures you have access to your favorite streaming services, movies, and shows. Voice control with the included remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
Sound quality leans towards average. The built-in speakers deliver acceptable audio for casual viewing, but audiophiles or those seeking a truly cinematic soundscape might crave a soundbar for a more powerful and immersive experience.
Overall, the Sony 65-Inch X77L Series 4K UHD TV is a compelling choice for budget-conscious viewers who prioritize affordability and a good-looking display for everyday entertainment. However, if you crave exceptional picture quality, deeper blacks, top-tier motion handling for gaming, or a powerful built-in sound system, you might want to explore higher-end options.
VIZIO 70-Inch V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV
The Vizio 70-Inch V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV emerges as a budget-friendly option for viewers seeking a massive screen size and basic smart TV features. Let’s see if it delivers a winning performance for your home entertainment needs.
The centerpiece of this Vizio TV is the colossal 70-inch 4K UHD LED display, perfect for creating a more immersive viewing experience that fills your peripheral vision. This is ideal for movie buffs or gamers who crave a larger-than-life experience. While not the most cutting-edge technology, the picture quality offers enjoyable visuals for casual viewing and binge-watching sessions. Blacks could be deeper for movie buffs seeking an ultra-immersive cinematic experience, especially in dark scenes.
Gamers, this TV caters to your needs on a basic level. The V-Series boasts a low input lag, minimizing the delay between your controller actions and what you see on screen. This is crucial for responsive gameplay. However, the standard 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for super competitive esports where every millisecond counts.
The user-friendly Vizio SmartCast platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its simplicity, SmartCast offers a good selection of popular streaming apps, ensuring you have access to your favorite on-demand shows and movies. Voice control with the included remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
A few limitations to consider: Blacks could be deeper for the most discerning movie buffs, and viewing angles aren’t as wide as some competitors, so picture quality might slightly decrease for viewers seated off-center on such a large screen. The sound quality leans towards average, and audiophiles might crave a soundbar for a more powerful soundscape to match the immersive visuals.
Overall, the Vizio 70-Inch V-Series 4K UHD LED Smart TV is a compelling choice for budget-conscious viewers seeking a giant screen for a more captivating viewing experience. Casual gamers will also appreciate the low input lag. However, if absolute deepest blacks, the widest viewing angles, or a top-tier sound system are your top priorities, you might want to explore higher-end options.
SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60C
The Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60C TV steps into the ring as a budget-friendly contender for viewers seeking a step up from traditional LED TVs with a focus on color and brightness. Let’s see if it scores high points for your entertainment needs.
The centerpiece of this Samsung TV is the 65-inch QLED display. This technology boasts quantum dots to enhance color and brightness compared to standard LED TVs. While not as high-end as OLED or Samsung’s Neo QLED, it delivers enjoyable visuals for casual viewers seeking a more vibrant picture. Movie buffs seeking the absolute deepest blacks for an ultra-immersive cinematic experience might find the contrast lacking in dark scenes.
Gamers, this TV offers a balanced approach. The Q60C boasts a winning combination of features for responsive gameplay. The low input lag minimizes the delay between your controller actions and what you see on screen, keeping you on top of fast-paced games. However, the standard 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for super competitive esports players who crave the smoothest visuals possible.
The user-friendly Tizen smart TV platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its intuitive interface and vast library of apps, Tizen offers easy access to your favorite streaming services, movies, and shows. Voice control with the included remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
There are a few limitations to consider. Blacks, as mentioned before, could be deeper for movie buffs seeking the most impactful scenes. Viewing angles aren’t as wide as some competitors, so picture quality might slightly decrease for viewers seated off-center on a larger screen like this. The sound quality leans towards average, and audiophiles might crave a soundbar for a more powerful soundscape to match the immersive visuals.
Overall, the Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60C is a compelling choice for casual viewers seeking a good-looking display with improved color and brightness over standard LED TVs. Gamers will also appreciate the low input lag for responsive gameplay. However, if absolute deepest blacks, the widest viewing angles, or a powerful built-in sound system are your top priorities, you might want to explore higher-end options.
LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV
The LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV emerges as a compelling contender for viewers seeking a balance between affordability and impressive picture quality. Let’s delve into its strengths and weaknesses to see if it illuminates your living room.
The centerpiece of this LG TV is the 55-inch QNED Mini LED display. This technology combines quantum dots and miniaturized LED backlighting, offering a significant upgrade over traditional LED TVs. The result? Enjoyable visuals with enhanced color and brightness compared to standard LED, ideal for casual viewers and movie enthusiasts seeking a vibrant picture without breaking the bank. Blacks could be deeper for the most discerning cinephiles, especially in very dark scenes.
Gamers, rejoice! The QNED80 Series boasts a winning combination of features. The low input lag minimizes the delay between your controller actions and what you see on screen, keeping you on top of fast-paced games. Additionally, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smoother visuals and reduces blur during intense gaming sessions, catering to both casual and more serious gamers.
The user-friendly webOS smart TV platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its intuitive interface and vast app library, webOS offers easy access to your favorite streaming services, movies, and shows. Voice control with the remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
A few limitations to consider: While the sound quality is decent, audiophiles seeking a room-filling soundscape might crave a soundbar for a more powerful audio experience. Viewing angles are good, but not as wide as some competitors, so picture quality might slightly decrease for viewers seated off-center.
Overall, the LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV is a compelling choice for viewers seeking a feature-rich TV with a good-looking QNED Mini LED display, decent motion handling for gaming, and a user-friendly webOS platform, all at an attractive price. However, if absolute deepest blacks, the widest viewing angles, or a top-tier sound system are your top priorities, you might want to explore higher-end options.
TCL 65-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart Google TV
The LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV emerges as a compelling contender for viewers seeking a balance between affordability and impressive picture quality. Let’s delve into its strengths and weaknesses to see if it illuminates your living room.
The centerpiece of this LG TV is the 55-inch QNED Mini LED display. This technology combines quantum dots and miniaturized LED backlighting, offering a significant upgrade over traditional LED TVs. The result? Enjoyable visuals with enhanced color and brightness compared to standard LED, ideal for casual viewers and movie enthusiasts seeking a vibrant picture without breaking the bank. Blacks could be deeper for the most discerning cinephiles, especially in very dark scenes.
Gamers, rejoice! The QNED80 Series boasts a winning combination of features. The low input lag minimizes the delay between your controller actions and what you see on screen, keeping you on top of fast-paced games. Additionally, the 120Hz refresh rate ensures smoother visuals and reduces blur during intense gaming sessions, catering to both casual and more serious gamers.
The user-friendly webOS smart TV platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its intuitive interface and vast app library, webOS offers easy access to your favorite streaming services, movies, and shows. Voice control with the remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
A few limitations to consider: While the sound quality is decent, audiophiles seeking a room-filling soundscape might crave a soundbar for a more powerful audio experience. Viewing angles are good, but not as wide as some competitors, so picture quality might slightly decrease for viewers seated off-center.
Overall, the LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV is a compelling choice for viewers seeking a feature-rich TV with a good-looking QNED Mini LED display, decent motion handling for gaming, and a user-friendly webOS platform, all at an attractive price. However, if absolute deepest blacks, the widest viewing angles, or a top-tier sound system are your top priorities, you might want to explore higher-end options.
Hisense ULED 4K Premium 75U6H
The Hisense ULED 4K Premium 75U6H Quantum Dot QLED Series 75-Inch Smart Google TV throws its hat in the ring for viewers seeking a feature-rich experience on a grand scale. Let’s see if it delivers a standing ovation for your home entertainment needs.
The centerpiece of this Hisense TV is the massive 75-inch Quantum Dot ULED display. This technology boasts a combination of Hisense’s proprietary ULED enhancements and quantum dots, offering a significant upgrade over traditional LED TVs. The result? A display that cranks up the color, contrast, and brightness, perfect for creating an immersive viewing experience for casual viewers and movie enthusiasts alike. Blacks could be deeper for the most critical cinephiles, especially in very dark scenes.
Gamers, this TV caters to your needs with some limitations. The U6H Series boasts a low input lag, keeping you on top of fast-paced games with minimal delay between your controller actions and what you see on screen. However, the standard 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for super competitive esports players who crave the absolute smoothest visuals.
The user-friendly Google TV platform takes center stage for entertainment. Renowned for its intuitive interface and vast library of apps, Google TV ensures you have access to your favorite streaming services, movies, and shows. Voice control with the included remote allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV, simplifying your viewing experience.
A few limitations to consider: While the picture quality is good overall, blacks could be deeper for the most discerning viewers, and viewing angles aren’t as wide as some competitors, so picture quality might slightly decrease for viewers seated off-center on a larger screen like this. The sound quality leans towards average, and audiophiles might crave a soundbar for a more powerful soundscape to match the immersive visuals.
Overall, the Hisense ULED 4K Premium 75U6H Quantum Dot QLED Series 75-Inch Smart Google TV is a compelling choice for viewers seeking a feature-rich experience with a colossal display and good picture quality. Casual gamers will also appreciate the low input lag. However, if absolute deepest blacks, the widest viewing angles, a top-tier sound system, or the highest refresh rate for esports are your top priorities, you might want to explore higher-end options.
Conclusion
Having navigated the labyrinth of TV reviews, you’ve emerged victorious with the knowledge to conquer your home entertainment needs. This journey explored the strengths and weaknesses of top contenders under $800, each vying for a spot in your living room.
A Display Worthy of Your Entertainment
Here’s a quick recap to solidify your victory:
- Budget Champions:
- Vizio 70-Inch V-Series: Massive screen size for an immersive experience, affordable price point, good for casual viewers.
- TCL 65-Inch Q7 QLED: Feature-packed with a QLED display, decent motion handling for gamers, user-friendly Google TV platform.
- Balancing Affordability & Quality:
- Sony 65-Inch X77L: Affordable price, decent picture quality for casual viewers, user-friendly Google TV platform with voice control.
- Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60C: QLED technology for enhanced color and brightness, good motion handling for gamers with low input lag, user-friendly Tizen platform with voice control.
- Stepping Up Your Game:
- LG QNED80 Series 55-Inch Class QNED Mini LED: QNED Mini LED display offers improved picture quality, good motion handling for gamers with 120Hz refresh rate, user-friendly webOS platform with voice control.
- Hisense ULED 4K Premium 75U6H: Massive 75-inch display, Quantum Dot ULED technology for improved picture quality, good for casual gamers with low input lag, user-friendly Google TV platform with voice control.
Remember, the ideal TV hinges on your unique needs and priorities. Consider factors like screen size, picture quality (including contrast and brightness), refresh rate for gamers, sound quality, smart TV platform functionality, and of course, your budget.
Armed with this knowledge and the insights gleaned from these reviewed titans, you’re now a conqueror in the realm of TVs under $800. Happy viewing, and may your entertainment experiences be legendary!
FAQs
Where can I find reliable reviews?
Consult trusted tech review websites and publications for in-depth reviews on specific TV models. These reviews evaluate picture quality, performance, features, and value for money.
Is there a difference between curved and flat TV?
Curved TVs were designed to offer a more immersive viewing experience. However, the benefits are debatable, and viewing angles can be limited. Flat TVs offer a wider viewing area and are generally more affordable.
What about ports and connectivity?
Ensure the TV has enough HDMI ports (at least 3-4) for connecting devices like gaming consoles or streaming devices. HDMI 2.1 compatibility is ideal for future-proofing. Consider USB ports for media playback or connecting external storage devices.
Can I control the TV with my voice?
Many smart TVs offer voice control with a remote or built-in voice assistant like Google Assistant or Alexa. This allows for hands-free navigation and control of the TV.
Is HDR (High Dynamic Range) important?
HDR delivers a wider range of colors and brighter highlights, enhancing picture realism. It’s increasingly common, especially in higher-end TVs under $800. However, content needs to be HDR-compatible to experience the benefits.
